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Planning your first European adventure? Not sure where to start—from picking spots to nailing visas or avoiding tourist traps? I’ve distilled all my tried-and-true tips into this foolproof step-by-step guide.
It covers exactly what new travelers need: balancing iconic sights with slow, cozy days, sorting logistics easily, and skipping peak-season headaches. Follow these steps for a seamless, unforgettable trip that feels fun, not stressful.
What It Is: 27 countries with border-free travel (e.g., France, Germany, Italy).
Non-Schengen: UK, Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria.
Key Rules:
Ideal First Trip:
Beginner-Friendly Routes:
| Interest | Route | Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Europe | Paris → Brussels → Amsterdam | High-speed train |
| Mediterranean | Barcelona → Nice → Rome | Flight + regional rail |
| Alpine Adventure | Zurich → Lauterbrunnen → Munich | Scenic trains |
Formula: 3-4 nights per major city, 2 nights for smaller towns.
Hack It:
Best Options by Budget:
| Type | Avg. Cost/Night | Platforms | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $15-$35 | Hostelworld | Solo travelers |
| Guesthouses | $50-$90 | Booking.com | Couples |
| Apartments | $80-$150 | Plum Guide | Families/groups |
Location Rule: Stay within 15 mins walk of a metro station.
Within Cities:
My Strategy:
First-Timer Essentials:
Packing Tip: Roll clothes in packing cubes—saves 50% space!
Uncover further inspiration in our blog.
Flightradar24: Live Flight Tracker
Global Flight Status & Tracker, Airport Weather and Delays
Top Countries to Visit in Europe | My 15 Best Tourist Places
Aveline Lux is a visionary writer and digital storyteller, using her blog on CitiWell Shop as a platform to explore the intersection of creativity, commerce, and culture.
Traveling extensively across continents, Aveline draws inspiration from different cultures and global trends, infusing her articles with unique perspectives and practical insights.
Aveline enjoys photography, hiking through nature trails, and curating playlists that fuel her creative process.
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